About the Course
Printmaking without a press, often called hand-pulled printmaking or press-free printmaking, is a versatile and accessible way to create prints without the use of a traditional printing press. Artists use simple tools and techniques to transfer ink or paint onto a surface, making it ideal for beginners, small spaces, or sustainable practices.
Learning Objectives:
By the end of this course, participants will:
Understand the basics of monoprint and printmaking techniques.
Learn how to use recycled materials as tools and surfaces for printmaking.
Explore design principles, color theory, and texture in printmaking.
Techniques you will learn for Press-Free Printmaking:
Monoprinting:
A single, unique print is created by applying ink or paint to a plate (such as plexiglass, plastic, or even recycled materials like CD cases or packaging).
The image is transferred to paper using hand pressure, a baren, or even the back of a spoon.
Relief Printing:
Carve an image into a surface (e.g., linoleum, wood, or recycled materials like foam trays).
Roll ink onto the raised areas and press the paper onto the surface by hand or with a baren.
Gelli Plate Printing:
Use a gelatin or synthetic gel plate to create layered, textural prints.
Paper is pressed onto the plate by hand to transfer the image.
LEVEL
All Levels
SUPPLIES INSTRUCTOR WILL PROVIDE
7 Gelli Plates
4 Brayers
Stencils
Student Grade Acrylic Paint and Ink
Brushes
Printing plates (recycled plexiglass, old CD cases, etc.)
Textured materials (bubble wrap, fabric scraps, cardboard, etc.)
Student Grade Paper
SUPPLIES TO BRING
Required:
Water containers
Reusable rags for wiping down materials (no paper towels please)
Requested but Non-Required Materials:
Apron
Artist Grade Paper*
Artist Grade Paint and Printmaking Ink
Paint brushes
Brayers and/or Barens
Stencils
Textured Materials: Bubble wrap, fabric, or found objects to create unique designs.
DIY Plates: Recycled materials like foam trays, cardboard, or plastic sheets.
* For monotype printing, the best paper is generally a smooth, medium-weight printmaking paper like Fabriano Rosaspina, Stonehenge, or Somerset Satin White, as they offer a good balance of ink absorption and ability to handle pressure without buckling, making them suitable for both beginners and experienced artists; for lighter, more delicate work, you can also consider watercolor paper.